Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba called for snap elections, but it backfired. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) suffered its worst defeat in fifteen years, losing its majority in the lower house. Voter dissatisfaction, fueled by a slush fund scandal, was palpable. 

The opposition, especially the Constitutional Democratic Party, capitalized on the discontent, gaining ground. Even fringe parties found unexpected success. 

Now, Ishiba must navigate the troubled waters of forming a minority government. Internal strife within the LDP threatens to complicate matters further. The once unassailable party faces a changing landscape, where "far right" and "progressive" forces reshape the political dialogue.

The Digest, 10/28/2024 @1230AM, CDT

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